How to Be the Best Advocate for Yourself or Your Loved One in Home Care and the Healthcare System By Lance A. Slatton

By Lance A. Slatton

Navigating the healthcare system and home care agencies can feel overwhelming, especially when you or a loved one needs support the most. But you have more power than you think. Being a strong advocate isn’t just about speaking up—it’s about preparation, persistence, and knowing your rights. 

Here’s how you can exercise the best care for yourself or someone you love.

Understand the Role of Advocacy

Advocacy means actively participating in care decisions, ensuring that your (or your loved one’s) preferences, needs, and rights are respected at every step. Without a proactive advocate, it’s all too easy to get lost in the shuffle of a complex system.

Essential Steps for Effective Advocacy

1. Prepare Thoroughly

• Make a detailed list of symptoms, questions, and concerns before appointments. Prioritize the most important issues to maximize limited time with providers.
• Research your condition or care needs. Use reputable sources and bring printed materials or notes to appointments.

2. Know Your Rights

• Every patient has the right to respectful treatment, to understand risks and benefits, to ask questions, and to seek a second opinion.
• Familiarize yourself with the rights specific to home care or healthcare settings. Many agencies and hospitals provide a written list of these rights upon request.

3. Communicate Clearly and Assertively

• Don’t hesitate to ask questions if something isn’t clear. Healthcare providers should explain things in simple terms.
• Share all relevant details, even if they feel embarrassing or minor—these can impact care decisions.
• If you disagree with a plan or feel something is off, speak up and request clarification or alternatives.

4. Keep Organized Records

• Maintain a folder with medical histories, medication lists, appointment notes, and correspondence. This will help ensure continuity, especially if you change providers or need to escalate concerns.

5. Bring a Support Person

• A trusted friend or family member can help take notes, ask questions, and provide emotional support during appointments or care meetings.
• If no one can attend in person, ask about joining via phone or video call.

6. Build a Support Network

• Join support groups—online or in person—for your specific health condition or caregiving situation. These groups offer practical advice and emotional support.
• Connect with local organizations or advocacy groups that specialize in patient or caregiver rights.

7. Stay Involved and Persistent

• Attend care meetings, ask for regular updates, and participate in decisions. Don’t be afraid to follow up or escalate issues to supervisors if your concerns aren’t addressed.
• Encourage your loved one to participate in activities and express their preferences whenever possible.

8. Take Care of Yourself

• Advocacy can be emotionally taxing. Prioritize your own well-being and seek respite or counseling if needed to avoid burnout.

Resources to Empower Your Advocacy

• Patient Advocacy Groups: Many national organizations offer guides, hotlines, and legal resources (e.g., Patient Advocate Foundation, Family Caregiver Alliance).
• Condition-Specific Support: Look for disease-specific foundations or associations (e.g., Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society).
• Local Health Departments: Offer seminars, printed materials, and sometimes free advocacy services.
• Online Communities: Platforms like CaringBridge, The Caregiver Space, or local Facebook groups connect you with others in similar situations.
• Home Care Agency Ombudsman: Most regions have an ombudsman or patient advocate who can help resolve disputes or clarify rights.

Final Thoughts

Being an advocate is about more than just asking questions—it’s about being prepared, staying organized, and never underestimating the value of your voice. Whether you’re advocating for yourself or a loved one, your involvement can make all the difference in the quality of care received. Remember: you are not alone, and there are resources and people ready to support you every step of the way.

You’ve got this. Speak up, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.

Lance A. Slatton, CSCM, is a healthcare professional with over 18 years in the healthcare industry. Lance is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He is also the host of the podcast All Home Care Matters, a podcast and YouTube channel. By subscribing to All Home Care Matters, you will gain access to a wealth of information and tips that can help you provide the best possible home care for your loved one. Lance also produces and co-hosts three additional shows: Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lori La Bey; The Caregiver’s Journal with Cindy and Christina Hardin-Weiss; and The Care Advocates with Dr. George Ackerman. Lance writes a monthly column on McKnight’s Home Care website, DailyCaring, and agebuzz. He was named a 50 under 50 for 2023 and was named the Top Healthcare Influencer for 2025. Lance’s new book, The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers’ Guide, is a road map for family caregivers from the start of their caregiving journey to the end, and everything in between. Lance’s personal website is www.lanceaslatton.com, and he can be reached at [email protected]